Flathead County closes fairgrounds grandstand due to safety concerns

Safety concerns have forced the closure of the main seating structures in the arena at the Flathead County Fairgrounds and pushed events to alternate venues for the time being.

The county began a capital improvement campaign in February to design and build a new seating structure to replace the north bleachers adjacent to the larger covered main grandstand, along with new concessions and additional amenities.

An inspection of the north bleachers found many areas with significant signs of rot and deterioration of the wood structure, framing and beams. Based on that inspection it was recommended that the seating area be closed to the public.